Beans with Sausages (Fasole cu Cârnați)

🛒 Ingredients

• Cooked White Beans 180 g · 192 kcal
• Smoked Sausage 120 g · 384 kcal
• Onion 50 g · 20 kcal
• Garlic 5 g · 7 kcal
• Tomato Paste 20 g · 17 kcal
• Vegetable Oil 8 g · 70 kcal
• Sweet Paprika 1 g · 3 kcal
• Dried Thyme 1 g · 1 kcal
• Bay Leaf 0 g · 0 kcal

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. If using dry beans, soak them overnight. Drain the soaked beans, rinse well, then boil them in fresh water for 10-15 minutes, drain and discard the water.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, sweet paprika, and dried thyme to the pot, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the par-boiled beans to the pot, along with enough water or vegetable broth to just cover them. Add the bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until beans are tender.
5. Slice the smoked sausages into thick rounds or desired pieces. After the beans have simmered for about 45 minutes, add the sliced sausages to the pot and continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, often accompanied by pickles or a simple salad.